receipt, decree, clasp, complication, relevance: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 1 set 235. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. receipt · noun/rɪˈsit/

   a written acknowledgment of the receipt of goods or payment

   Please keep your receipt as proof of purchase for any future returns.

   Synonyms: proof of purchase, acknowledgment, record

   Origin: from Middle French 'receite', from Latin 'receptum', meaning 'a thing received'

2. decree · noun/dɪˈkri/

   an official order or proclamation issued by a person in authority

   The mayor issued a decree declaring a state of emergency in response to the severe storm.

   Synonyms: edict, order, mandate

   Origin: from Latin 'decretum', meaning 'something decreed'

3. clasp · noun/klæsp/

   a device for holding objects together

   She secured the necklace with a delicate gold clasp that shimmered in the light.

   Synonyms: fastener, clip, catch

   Origin: From Middle English 'claspen', meaning to fasten or grip, from Old Norse 'klaspa', meaning to clutch or grasp.

4. complication · noun/ˌkɑːmplɪˈkeɪʃən/

   a difficulty or problem that arises in a situation

   The surgery went well, but there was a complication during recovery that required additional treatment.

   Synonyms: difficulty, problem, obstacle

   Origin: from the Latin 'complicatio', meaning 'a folding together'

5. relevance · noun/ˈrɛl.ə.vəns/

   the quality or state of being closely connected or appropriate to the matter at hand

   The relevance of the research findings to current environmental policies cannot be overstated.

   Synonyms: pertinence, applicability, significance

   Origin: From the Latin 'relevantem', meaning 'bearing upon' or 'pertinent'.